Joint Statement by Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick M. Shanahan and Vice President of Colombia Marta Lucía Ramírez Following Today’s Meeting at the Pentagon

May 7, 2019

Today our Nations confirmed our mutual commitment to the freedom-loving people of Venezuela amidst the ongoing crisis in their country. Together we call for Nicolás Maduro to step down and allow the peaceful transition of power to Juan Guaidó, the legitimate leader of Venezuela who is officially recognized by 54 countries around the world, and the democratically elected National Assembly.

The U.S. - Colombia defense relationship is stronger than ever. Together we stand committed to resolving the humanitarian crisis in our hemisphere, in stark contrast with malign foreign attempts to interfere militarily. We look forward to the day we can rebuild a relationship with Venezuela’s military.